San Mateo HVAC – Thermostat Not Working? Troubleshooting Tips

If you live in San Mateo, San Francisco, or the East Bay and your thermostat isn’t functioning properly, you may be wondering why. Sometimes when the thermostat doesn’t operate as it should, it’s a problem with the thermostat itself. Other times, it may be your heating/cooling system. We have a few tips to help you decide where the problem lies.

First, check the thermostat. Dusty wires, loose or corroded wires, or a lack of power could be the problem. Make sure your thermostat has power first, checking that all wiring/components are tight and fitting as they should.

Next, you’ll want to check whether wires may be corroded or loose. If they’re corroded, have them replaced; if loose, tighten the wires up. Dusty or dirty wires can also present a problem, so if this appears to be the case, clean them by carefully using a compressed air sprayer.

Could setting the thermostat up a few degrees help? During colder months, if it appears the thermostat isn’t functioning, simply set it up about five degrees higher to see if your HVAC system comes on. Also keep in mind the thermostat should be located about five feet from the floor, and should be level in order to function properly.

Make sure the thermostat is turned on, and set to the “heat” or “cool” mode, whichever is proper for the season.

Is the display blank? It could be a simple matter of replacing the batteries, resetting the thermostat by flipping the switch between off and heat/cool repeatedly, or by flipping the AC/furnace switch on the circuit breaker off and on.

Following a power outage, if your thermostat won’t function, try toggling the switch from “fan” mode to electric on and off. When the thermostat is set to “fan,” your system will run constantly. It should be set to “auto” in order for your heat or air conditioning to cycle on and off according to the temperature you’ve set the thermostat on.

These are a few tips that will help you troubleshoot the problem when something seems to be wrong with the thermostat. In some cases, it could be your HVAC system. When you can’t determine the issue or resolve it, count on the San Mateo HVAC professionals at Ortiz Heating & A/C for expert service and repair!